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About Venice Island’s New Musical Series

The New Musical Series was created to provide space and support for the next generation of composers, lyricists and performers. At its core, the Series is about giving Philadelphia-based artists the opportunity to dream boldly, refine their work and present new musicals in a professional theatrical environment.
 
In 2025, Venice Island Performing Arts Center launched the inaugural New Musical Series with the world premiere presentation of The Lost Tango—and it was a tremendous success.
 
Written by Howard Burke (Composer/Lyricist) and Robert Calandra (Librettist/Lyricist), The Lost Tango was directed by Beth Criscuolo with musical direction by Jim Wade and choreographed by Maria Jackson. The Lost Tango played to a packed house in our 250-seat theatre.
 
The selected musical for the 2026 Season will receive its first, fully staged public performance and be produced by Venice Island Performing Arts Center. The musical will be supported by a director, music director, designers, cast and technical team. There is no fee for the submission. Venice Island Performing Arts Center will provide full production, financial and administrative support to ensure a high-quality presentation within the production budget allocated.
 
We are currently seeking submissions for the 2026 New Musical and invite writers to become part of this exciting series.

Is Your Show Eligible?

Any new musical may be submitted for consideration, provided it meets the criteria outlined below.

 

Must-Haves

  • The musical must be complete and production-ready. No placeholder, abbreviated, or summarized scenes or songs will be accepted.

  • Must have 8 characters or less

  • The submission must include a demo that accurately represents the music and overall style of the show.​

 

Ineligible

  • The musical has previously been fully produced (workshops and readings are acceptable) or is currently being produced by another producer or venue.

 

Additional Considerations

  • Writers participate in the New Musical Series as writers only and may not direct, serve as music director, or perform in their presentation.

  • Writers must be open to feedback, revisions and/or musical changes as discussed with the director, music director and producer.

  • Writers must be available for auditions, rehearsals and other commitments as requested.

  • Venice Island does not require any financial contribution from writers. Writers will not receive payment or an honorarium.

 

Venice Island requires credit and acknowledgment in any future productions and/or publications of the musical.

Not quite ready for a fully staged production?

Have a scene, song, or dance you’re working on? Submit a piece to our Shoe Box Short Theatre Festival and put it in front of an audience. We can't wait to see what you're working on! More information on The Shoe Box Short Theatre Festival, click HERE.

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